Patent # 7,220,378
Method and Apparatus for the Measurement and Control of Both the Inside and
Outside Surface Temperature of Thermoplastic Preforms During Stretch Blow
Molding Operations
Issued: May 22, 2007 |
| Abstract: |
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A stretch blow molding system that condition preforms such that the
temperature distribution within the cross-section of each preform is
optimized prior to blow molding operations is provided. The system has a
temperature measurement and control system capable of directly monitoring
both the outside as well as the inside surface temperature of preforms at
different stages of transport throughout the thermal conditioning section of
the system. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 7,227,166
System and Method for Associating Container Defect Information to a
Specific Path of Manufacturing
Issued: June 5, 2007 |
| Abstract: |
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This application relates to an apparatus and method for automated inspection
of formed metal containers. More specifically, it pertains to the use of
machine vision systems to identify and correlate manufacturing defects
occurring in formed food and beverage containers to specific manufacturing
paths or sources of origin (e.g., body makers) used in the container forming
process. The disclosed invention is enabled by the placement of a
machine-readable code on specific portions of the can body during the
forming process and the use of machine vision reading techniques. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 7,204,943
Method and Apparatus for Handling Parts Ejected from an Injection Molding
Machine
Issued: 04/17/07 |
| Abstract: |
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This invention relates to a method and apparatus for handling parts ejected
from an injection molding machine. More particularly, in one aspect, the
invention is directed to a system whereby data molded into the ejected part
is used to provide useful feedback for the molding process. In another
aspect, molded parts formed in a multiple molding die are ejected from the
die in a manner to maintain the relative sequential or matrix organization
so that useful feedback information can be generated. This system is
particularly useful with subsequent machine vision and inspection
applications. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 6,967,716
Apparatus and Method for Inspecting
Multi-layer Plastic Containers
Issued: 11/22/05 |
| Abstract: |
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This invention relates to an apparatus and method for inspecting multi-layer
plastic containers. More particularly, the invention relates to such an
apparatus and method whereby optical energy absorbing compounds are added to
the materials comprising the layer(s) of the container to facilitate
inspection thereof. Apparatus comprises a sensor unit, an illumination unit for illuminating a portion of electromagnetic spectrum at a near IR
wavelength to an inspection zone which is located between the sensor unit and the illumination unit.
A processing unit which receives an output of the sensor unit determines the
attributes of the multilayer plastic containers. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 6,894,775
System and Method for Inspecting the Structural Integrity
of Visibly Clear Objects
Issued: 5/17/05 |
| Abstract: |
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An inspection system is provided comprising at least one
detection element sensitive to electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength
wherein the object to be inspected is rendered opaque by naturally occurring
material molecular absorptions. As such, material defects such as cracks and
voids can be detected. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 6,878,316
Method and Apparatus for Handling Parts Ejected From an
Injection Molding Machine
Issued: 4/12/05 |
Abstract: |
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This invention relates to a method and apparatus for handling
parts ejected from an injection molding machine. More particularly, in one
aspect, the invention is directed to a system whereby data molded into the
ejected part is used to provide useful feedback for the molding process. In
another aspect, molded parts formed in a multiple molding die are ejected
from the die in a manner to maintain the relative sequential or matrix
organization so that useful feedback information can be generated. This
system is particularly useful with subsequent machine vision and inspection
applications. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 6,872,895
Apparatus and Method for Providing Spatially-Selective
On-Line Mass or Volume Measurements of Manufactured Articles
Issued: 3/29/05 |
Abstract: |
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This invention relates to a method and apparatus for mass
and/or volume measurements of manufactured articles. More particularly, this
invention relates to a method and apparatus for mass and/or volume
measurements that can be performed on-line in a part manufacturing process.
On-line measurement of the mass or volume of material contained in a
specific region of interest of the manufactured items is performed 100%
on-line. Real-time process control information is based on real-time
measurement of the mass or volume of material contained in a specific region
of interest of a manufactured item. Automated quality control inspection for
manufactured articles is based on real-time measurement of the mass or
volume of material contained in a specific region of interest of
manufactured items. A manufacturing closed-loop process is directly
corrected to keep it within control limits based on real-time measurement of
the mass or volume of material contained in a specific region of interest of
manufactured items soon after these items are manufactured. Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 4,882,498
Pulsed-Array Video Inspection Lighting System
Issued: 11/21/89 |
Abstract: |
An engineered lighting system for use in an inspection system is comprised
of an array of light emitting diodes. A specimen is brought into the viewing area, and a
current pulse is provided to the diodes of the array. Reflected light from the specimen is
sensed and a digitized image is generated therefrom. An illumination level of the
digitized image is adjustable, in whole or in part, by varying the effective lighting
intensity of one or more of the diodes of the array during a flash period. The digitized
image of the specimen is compared to data indicative of acceptability of the specimen, and
acceptance or rejection of the specimen is decided on a basis of a comparison
therebetween.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 4,924,107
System for Inspecting the Inside Surfaces of a Container for Defects
and Method Therefor
Issued: 5/8/90 |
Abstract: |
A system for inspecting a plurality of horizontal regions on the inside
surfaces of an object such as an aluminum beverage can for defects. This system utilizes a
plurality of cameras with each camera focused, in a field of view, on one of the plurality
of horizontal regions in the object, the light for illuminating the inside of the object,
an including dot for selectively masking out areas of reflected interfering light, and a
processor for analyzing the captured image of the horizontal region with illuminated.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 4,972,093
Inspection Lighting System
Issued: 11/20/90 |
Abstract: |
An engineered lighting system for use in an inspection system is comprised
of an array of light emitting diodes. A specimen is brought into the viewing area, and a
current pulse is provided to the diodes of the array to selectively flash all or a portion
of the diodes of the array. Reflected light from the specimen is sensed and a digitized
image is generated therefrom. An illumination level of the digitized image is adjustable,
in whole or in part, by varying the effective lighting intensity of one or more of the
diodes of the array during a flash period. The digitized image of the specimen is compared
to data indicative of acceptability of the specimen, and acceptance or rejection of the
specimen is decided on a basis of a comparison therebetween.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,051,825
Dual Image Video Inspection Apparatus
Issued: 9/24/91 |
Abstract: |
A video inspection system includes first and second video cameras mounted
along parallel axes. A lighting array is pulsed, and resultant light is reflected from a
specimen to both cameras. Orientation of the specimen is determined in accordance with an
image generated from a first camera. This data is used to isolate a selected portion of
the specimen for analysis by an image generated from the second camera.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,072,127
Engineered Video Inspecting Lighting Array
Issued: 12/10/91 |
Abstract: |
An engineered video inspection lighting system includes a
three-dimensional array of solid-state light emitting diodes focused to an inspection
area. A single high-current, low-duration pulse is applied to selected elements of the
array. Light thus generated is passed through a diffuser and to a specimen. Light
reflected from the specimen is received by a lens of a video camera disposed in an
interior of the three-dimensional array. Data thus obtained is used to determine
acceptability of the specimen in accordance with preselected standards.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,095,204
Machine Vision Inspection System and Method for Transparent Containers
Issued: 3/10/92 |
Abstract: |
A system and method for optical inspection of the bottom surfaces of
transparent containers comprises an image acquiring means, an illumination source and
means for processing, storing and analyzing the image to search for an identify a baffle
mark in the acquired image, and when found, to remove or erase the baffle mark from the
image memory prior to the defect inspection process. Significant defects present in the
area of the image being searched can be identified, even if the defects are located
directly on the baffle mark, thus providing high sensitivity capabilities for defect
detection while maintaining a low false rejection rate due to baffle marks.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,172,005
Engineered Lighting System for TDI Inspection Comprising means for
Controlling Lighting Elements in Accordance with Specimen Displacement
Issued: 12/15/92 |
Abstract: |
An engineered lighting system for high speed video inspection includes an
array of light emitting diodes including light emitting diodes for use in time delay
integration (TDI) inspection of web materials. The light emitting diodes of the array area
selectively controllable to accomplish sequential illumination and carefully controllable
imaging of a specified section of a continuously moving specimen or specimens. The system
also includes an array of optional backlighting elements to aid in illumination of
semi-opaque specimens to accomplish inspection thereof.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,331,151
Multiple Envelope Detector
Issued: 7/19/94 |
Abstract: |
A parcel detection system works in connection with a stream of parcels,
such as might be encountered in connection with bulk mail sorting apparatii. A presence of
multiple parcels traveling adjacent one to another is detected with a line scan charge
coupled devise. A transducer array is disposed perpendicularly to the stream flow.
Specular illumination of edges of the parcels is completed to facilitate capturing an
image in the CCD array. An analog signal, obtained from the array, includes information
representative of a number of adjacent parcels. This information is processed to provide a
signal representative of a number of parcels traveling adjacent to one another in the
stream.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,365,084
Video Inspection System Employing Multiple Spectrum LED Illumination
Issued: 11/15/94 |
Abstract: |
An engineered lighting system for high speed video inspection includes an
array of light emitting diodes including light emitting diodes for use in time delay
integration (TDI) inspection of web materials. The light emitting diodes of the array are
selectively controllable to accomplish sequential illumination and carefully controllable
imaging of specimens. LEDs with
different wavelength light output, or multi-wavelength light LEDs are utilized for rapid
and reliable inspection of varying color or contour or defect
characteristics. The system also includes an array of optional backlighting elements to
aid in illumination of semi-opaque specimens to accomplish inspection thereof.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,440,385
Integrated Isotropic Illumination Source for Translucent Item
Inspection
Issued: 8/8/95 |
Abstract: |
A substantially isotropic illumination source utilizes a generally
spherical, translucent diffuser. The spherical diffuser has an inner wall and a diffusive
outer wall. Light is communicated inwardly to the sphere along a first hemisphere. Light
is diffused and homogenized by internal reflection within the sphere and communicated
outwardly through a complimentary hemisphere. This light, upon being diffused by the
external or outer wall is substantially isotropic. The isotropic light so generated is
utilized for video inspection of translucent specimens with improved contrast to
facilitate detection of flaws therein. Another aspect utilizes a specimen itself as the
isotropic diffuser.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,451,773
Non-Contact perforation/Pinhole Detection System for Opaque Vessels
Issued: 9/19/95 |
Abstract: |
A system for detecting a side wall perforation in containers operates
non-invasively and at line speeds. A stream of similar containers are communicated to an
inspection area. An exterior of each container is illuminated while the container is in
the inspection area. Light from an interior of the container is focused, via a lens, to a
video camera. Any perforate flaws in the container walls results in a point source of
light in the container interior. Since the perforations are relatively small, the point
source is created due to diffractive properties of the slit perforation. These
diffractive properties facilitate obtaining an image of the flaw from the camera disposed
to the interior of the container when the camera is mounted orthogonally to the
perforation of parallel to the wall being inspected. In an other embodiment, the relative
positions of the light source and camera are interchanged. A method for container
inspection is also provided in connection with the afore-noted structure.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,591,462
European Patent Number 0793569
Bottle Inspection Along Molder Transport Path
Issued: 1/7/97 |
Abstract: |
Camera based inspection equipment is used in conjunction with a
multiple-station forming devise such as a blow molder for polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
or PEN bottle manufacturing. The inspection system relies on handling devices that present
successive bottles for imaging, and due to their operation with the forming device it is
possible to correlate inspection data with individual forming elements and/or transfer
elements. A seal surface inspection module, a base/neck fold inspection module and a
finish gauge inspection module are integrated into the route of preforms and containers
through the container manufacturing equipment such that the inspection system is directed
to view the passing bottles as they are carried on the transfer devices needed to load and
unload the molder. The base/neck fold examines the lower portion of the bottles in
elevation and plan view at the predetermined angle of orientation of the bottles on their
longitudinal axes, maintained from the mold cavity to the inspection system, for examining
the folds in the bottoms of the bottles. The seal surface module examines the surface to
be sealed against a cap, in an axial inspection view. The finish gauge inspection module
examines the threads and flanged neck.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,592,286
Container Flange Inspection System Using an Annular Lens
Issued: 1/7/97 |
Abstract: |
The present invention provides a machine vision inspection system for
inspecting the flanges of metal containers that can reliably detect flange defects as
small as 0.010 to 0.012 inches. The inspection device comprises apparatus for producing an
enlarged image of selected portions of the flange and apparatus for capturing and
processing the image. The apparatus for producing the enlarged image includes an annular
lens positioned between the flange and the producing apparatus. The invention also
provides a method for inspecting a flange of an article, such as a can, for defects. The
method comprises the steps of directing light onto the flange of the article from a light
source, forming light rays reflected from the flange into a radially expanded image of the
flange by positioning an annular lens to redirect reflected light rays into the radially
expanded image, and providing apparatus for capturing and processing the image to inspect
the flange for defects. By providing an annular lens positioned between the flange and the
camera, the present invention enlarges the image of the flange and any defects relative to
a pixel of an inspection system. Increasing the effective size of a defect to extend
outside of a single pixel increases the effective resolution of the system permitting the
detection of smaller defects in the flange of a metal container.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,699,152
Electro-Optical Inspection System and method
Issued: 12/16/97 |
Abstract: |
A system and method for inspecting opaque objects, such as metal beverage
containers, is presented including a light source for illuminating the interior surface of
the container, an ellipsoidal first mirror for forming a first image of an upper interior
portion of the container, a first camera for capturing the first image of the upper
interior portion of the container, a planar image-splitting second mirror for forming a
second image of the flange of the container, a second camera for capturing the second
image of the flange, and image combiner for electro-optically combining the first and
second images, whereby a resultant composite image corresponding to substantially the
entire upper interior surface of the container can be generated and analyzed for defects,
a third camera located at a separate location for viewing directly the lower interior
portion of the container and capturing a corresponding third image, and a computer means
for analyzing the resulting images for defects. In an alternative embodiment, a fourth
camera and a planar image-splitting third mirror may be disposed at the separate location
for forming and capturing a fourth image corresponding specifically to the bottomwall of
the container, and an image combiner can electro-optically combine the third and fourth
images, whereby a second resultant composite image corresponding to substantially the
entire lower interior portion of the container can be generated and analyzed for defects.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,805,279
Method and Apparatus for Illuminating and Imaging a Can End Coated with
Sealing Material
Issued: 9/8/98 |
Abstract: |
A can end to be inspected, including a portion coated by a sealing
material, is illuminated by polarized light. The light reflected from the object and
sealing material is viewed by a camera through a polarizing filter. The polarizing filter
blocks out polarized light reflected by the can end and sealing material that does not
contain any defects, but passes light reflected by the sealing material that has been
depolarized by a defect in the sealing material.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,911,003
Color Pattern Evaluation System for Randomly Oriented Articles
Issued: 6/8/99 |
Abstract |
An imaging device coupled to a processor generates a number of image
signals corresponding to a multicolor pattern of an item in motion. Each of a number of
regions of the pattern is correlated to one of a number of reference colors to generate a
segmented image of the pattern. The processor modules the multicolor pattern by deriving a
number of test values from the segmented image representation. Each test value is
representative of a corresponding one of the regions and is determined as a function of
region size independent of orientation of the multicolor pattern. The test values are
compared to reference data to detect a variation of the item. The reference colors may be
determined from color pairs with each pair having a first member from a first set of
sample colors and a second member from a second set of sample colors. The first member is
closer to the second member than any other color of the second set in the color space, and
the second member is closer to the first member than any other color of the first set in
the color space. An image of the item randomly oriented with respect to a model image is
characterized by generating a number of characteristic values within the processor with
respect to rotational position about an item image point. A rotationally correlated item
image is generated as a function of the characteristic values for evaluation.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,936,353
High-Density Solid-State Lighting Array for Machine Vision Applications
Issued: 8/10/99 |
Abstract: |
A solid-state lighting unit for automated visual inspection includes a
high-density array of light emitting diodes. The packing density of said diode array being
limited only by the physical size of the light emitting diode chips and the ability to
perform die and wire bond operations on the bare chips. Each diode is disposed on a n
electrically insulated, thermally conductive base unit. The base units is, in turn, in a
thermally conductive path with a heat dissipater. The provisions made to ensure a
thermally conductive path form the individual light emitting diode chips to the heat
dissipater combined with the high chip packing densities work together to create a
solid-state lighting array capable of producing extremely high illumination fields when
operated in either pulsed or continuous current mode.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent # 5,941,111
Die Set with Sunken Load Cells
Issued: 8/24/99 |
Abstract |
An instrumentation system for measuring forces during tool and die forming
operations including a load cell positioned in a well bored into a base plate. The plate
includes a series of channel that carry wiring from the load cell to the periphery of the
base plate. The load cell is preferably mounted flush with a supporting surface of the
base plate to facilitate periodic cleaning. The load cell includes sensors generating a
signal corresponding to the force or compression on the load cell. The load cell also
includes apertures extending therethrough to allow existing tooling to be mounted on the
load cell to the base plate via fasteners and pins extending through the load cell to the
base plate. An universal load cell embodiment includes a pattern of apertures allowing tow
or more tools having unique hole patterns to be mounted on the load cell with fasteners
and pins extending therethrough.
Back to the top of the page |
Patent 6,122,048
Integral Field Lens Illumination for Video Inspection
Issued: 09/19/2000
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Abstract
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A video inspection system is provided wherein light from a light source is
directed through a field lens. The field lens directs the incident light first in
the direction of an object under inspection and then, after reflecting from said object,
redirecting the reflected light toward the aperture of an imaging lens/camera assembly.
This redirection technique results in magnification of selected regions of the object.
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PRESSCO TECHNOLOGY INC. HAS INVESTED SIGNIFICANT RESOURCES IN
DEVELOPING THESE PATENTED TECHNOLOGIES AND WILL AGGRESSIVELY PROTECT THESE INTELLECTUAL
PROPERTIES.
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